I love a lot of things about living in Alaska, but its hiking trails are my favorite by far. I hike probably 2 to 3 times a week in the summer, and I am still finding new trails I’ve never seen before. That being said there is no way to list all the trails I love but I can give you the best of the best. Here are the 10 best hikes in Alaska everyone should try.
This trail is located in the ever popular Hatcher Pass area, and its trails like this that make Hatcher’s a hiker’s dream. I love this hike as a long all-day hike or a short and sweet overnight. The trail has rivers, blue lakes, and one hell of a waterfall at the end of the 4.5-mile hike.
Located in the town of Girdwood, Winner Creek trail is a favorite of mine for its transportation qualities. It takes you deep into lush green forests, over raging glacier rivers, and across a deep gorge by handcart. If you are new to hiking and want minimal effort and maximum payoff, Winner Creek would be perfect for you.
This is a long one but it is so worth it. This 21-mile trail leads you into woods that could belong in Lord of the Rings, through a river feed directly by a glacier, and right by a massive glacier.
This is my favorite trail to hike in the fall. This trail switches back and forth cutting its way up the south side of Twin Peaks Mountain. In the fall the trail is edged on either side with beautiful trees filled with red and yellow leaves. And if you high enough up, you are rewarded with amazing mountain and lake views below.
I know that Portage Glacier and Matanuska Glacier get all the tourists, but Bryon Glacier has my vote. It is a pretty easy hike out from Portage visitor’s center and brings you right up to and under a perfectly blue glacier.
This is a historic trail in Alaska, so most likely you’ve heard of it, but most people haven’t hiked it. Probably because the 28-mile distance is intimidating, but there are 8 cabins along the way for those who don’t want to tent it. If you are looking for a long weekend hike, this is a great choice.
Technically this trail is an overnighter, but I have always done it as a day hike by only going part of the way. Located at the edge of Seward Caine’s Head, this one takes hikers along the coastline to Alaska’s version of a beach. It’s a pretty magical trail and should definitely be one of the best hikes in Alaska you check out.
Lazy Mountain may be a local favorite, but Matanuska peak is my climb of choice. It can be done in a single day, but I recommend starting early so you can take your time on the final ascent which is over steep rocks. This is not an easy hike, but if you have mastered Lazy Mt. and want something a little harder, Matanuska is perfect.
This trail is at the top of Hatcher Pass, and its views do not disappoint. If you want a short and sweet climb with a 360-degree view, April Bowl is a great choice.
I actually found out about this trail by word of mouth. I heard there was a good trail in the Chugiak neighborhood so I drove around searching for trail signs until I found this gem. It’s only a 2-mile trek but it is a workout for sure and should not be taken lightly. However, if you do take it on, you will be rewarded with one of the best views of the Matanuska Valley. If you come during the blueberry season, bring a bag because this place lives up to its name. There are plenty of options when it comes to the best hikes in Alaska.
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